Two promoted at Harley

Harley-Davidson Motor Company has promoted Willie G. Davidson to senior vice president and chief styling officer. In a related move, the company also announced that Louie Netz has been promoted to vice president/director of styling and will serve on the company’s Create Demand Circle (CDC) and Functional Leadership Group (FLG).
“Willie G. Davidson’s promotion recognizes his one-of-a-kind styling genius, the enduring importance of his design sense, and his leadership in creating and preserving the distinctive look of Harley-Davidson motorcycles,” said Jeff Bleustein, Harley-Davidson chairman and CEO.
“For nearly 30 years, Louie Netz has worked beside me to create the great motorcycles that we are all celebrating this year,” said Davidson. “I have no plans of leaving this special company, but it’s time for Louie to be recognized for his contributions and to become a part of the senior decision-making group that will ensure our legacy.”
Willie G. Davidson has been with the company for more than 40 years and was most recently vice president of styling. Louie Netz was most recently director of styling.
DAIJIRO KATO 1976-2003
Daijiro Kato, the 2001 250cc World Roadracing Champion, died Easter morning at the Yokkaichi Central Hospital in Japan, Kato had been in a coma following a crash at the season-opening MotoGP race at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan.
AMA PRO RACING makes changes
AMA Pro Racing has revised its class structure for the AMA U.S. Superbike Championship, reflecting the changing motorcycle marketplace, needs of the manufacturers, racers and interests of the fans. The new class structure will be implemented beginning with the next racing season.
“Our primary objectives (with these changes) are to deliver the best possible show to our fans while focusing on the market development of professional motorcycle racing in the United States,”said Scott Hollingsworth, CEO of AMA Pro Racing.
The new classes include Superbike, Supersport, Formula Xtreme and Superstock and are outlined as follows: Superbike: 900cc-1000cc four-stroke, any number of cylinders. Supersport: 600cc four-stroke, twin and four cylinders. Formula Xtreme: 600cc four-stroke, four cylinders; 750cc four-stroke, twin cylinders; 250cc-330cc two-stroke. All highly modified. Superstock: 750cc-1000cc four-stroke, four cylinders; up to 1350cc air-cooled twin cylinders.
“Each class was scrutinized to see that it makes sense to the racing community,” said Merrill Vanderslice, AMA Pro Racing Director of Competition, adding that the new classes represent a logical and equitable evolution of the current structure.
“We adjusted the Superbike class so it remains the premier class in our championship but also took a close look at each of the support classes.
“For example, we must objectively recognize the current state of two-stroke development but at the same time remain mindful of the needs of the small but loyal group that enthusiastically follows that particular class of racing.”
Hollingsworth said the new class structure will provide “expanded media opportunities and increased business opportunities.”
KAWASAKI launches bike promotion
Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A., has launched its “Spring ’03” Good Times Power Bucks Customer Cash Program aimed at driving traffic to Kawasaki motorcycle dealerships.
Customers who purchase a new limited-production ’03 Kawasaki NINJA ZX-6RR sportbike through May 31, 2003, will receive $600 in Good Times Power Bucks Customer Cash. The Power Bucks may be applied to the purchase price of the motorcycle or for special factory race kit accessories or the customer can take the Power Bucks as a cash rebate.
The Kawasaki NINJA ZX-6RR sportbike is designed to meet rules for National and World Supersport racing. Like every new NINJA sportbike, it comes with a 12-month unlimited mileage warranty that can be extended up to three additional years. Plus, NINJA owners can purchase accessories for their new Kawasaki online at www.buykawasaki.com.
Details are provided at www.kawasaki.com.